'I'm a driving instructor and this is the fastest I ever taught a learner to pass'
This expert believes computer games including classics like Grand Theft Auto and Gran Turismo make boys better drivers, meaning they're the fastest to pass their driving tests
A TikTok driving instructor has offered some well-informed advice to help learners understand what to expect — especially in terms of how long it might take to pass your driving test.
Learning to drive is a major milestone, but can feel pretty daunting when sitting behind the wheel for the first time. Many new drivers worry about how long it will take to get comfortable and pass the test. Fortunately, Francis from Driving School TV on TikTok has shared his real-world insider insight to put things into perspective.
In his years of teaching, Francis has noticed that the speed at which people learn to drive varies a lot. Some learners pick it up quickly, while others take a bit more time — and both are perfectly normal.
Shares his perspective on the quickest learner he's ever taught, he shared: "The fastest I've ever taught anyone is 10 two-hour lessons. That's from 'I don’t know what a clutch is' to 'I can drive independently and pass a driving test'." But he makes it clear that this is an exception, not a rule, as "some people take a lot, lot longer".
He also pointed out a common trend he noticed: "Normally and honestly, the people who pass the fastest are normally boys, they've played a lot of GTA (Grand Theft Auto) or Gran Turismo, so they just understand the mechanics of cars."
Want big news with big heart? Get the top headlines sent straight to your inbox with our Daily Newsletter
So while video gaming may give some learners a head start, at least according to Francis, he still encourages every learner to take their time and "go at your pace — it's not a race."
Many beginners worry about their first driving lesson, but Francis wants to put those fears to rest. He explained: "You're going to go through your controls and instruments. "So what the dashboard's doing, indicting, steering, what the pedals are there for, and then moving off and stopping, which is literally just making the car move and stop on a really quiet road. Your instructor is going to take care of all of the safety and guide you through every single step."
Francis also reminds new drivers to ensure they have their green provisional driving licence before starting lessons: "If you haven't applied for your green provisional driving licence yet then you will have to get one before you even start learning to drive. It costs £34 from Gov.uk."
So influencer insider Francis' message is clear — every learner is different, and that's exactly how it's meant to be. So take your time, trust your instructor’s guidance and focus on building your confidence up one step at a time.
Do you have a story to share? Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk for a chance to be featured.